Negombo is located on the western Sea belt of Sri Lanka and is a favourite beach resort, renowned for its centuries old fishing industry and wide and sandy beaches. Conveniently located 7 km from the Bandaranaike International Airport, it is an ideal tourist destination which offers star class hotels, pristine beaches, water sports and handicraft and jewellery stores. The many old buildings to be seen in Negombo offer a glimpse into the Portuguese and Dutch heritage of the region.
One of the most visited tourist sites in Negombo is the Old Dutch Fort Gate which adds an old world charm to the city. The Old Dutch Fort was built by the Dutch in 1672 on a land between the Negombo Lagoon and an inlet to the sea, designed in a shape of a pentagon. Thus it is sometimes referred to as Star Fort.
The gate to the fort faces the west and is designed as a vaulted archway. The fort was surrounded by deep moats and access to the fort was by a drawbridge deeply recessed into the ramparts. Most of this historic site is in ruins today with many areas of the complex used as government offices, with a better part of it being in ruins due to the fact that after the British conquered Sri Lanka, the fort was badly maintained. All that remains of this majestic structure are the ramparts and the magnificent Old Dutch Gate with the date inscribed on it still visible.
Its stunning colonial architectural design and invaluable brick work stands as a monument to the Dutch era of Sri Lanka. As you walk in through the Dutch Gate, you will be mesmerized by the colonial ambience and aura.
Within easy reach of the Dutch Fort Gate is the romantic beachfront Negombo hotel, Jetwing Blue. With a sweeping view of the ocean, Jetwing Blue offers tourists warm Sri Lankan hospitality, infused with breathtaking sea-side beauty, exotic excursions and thrilling water sports will make a stay at this luxurious beach hotel Negombo a blissful experience. Enjoy the glorious sunshine, pristine beaches, exciting water sports and azure waters of this truly picturesque coastal area in this island paradise.
